How can we avoid the greed and evil described in Micah 7:3? The Picture Micah Paints “Both hands are skilled in evil; the prince demands a gift, the judge is for sale, the mighty speak the desire of their soul—and together they devise it.” Micah 7:3 Recognize the Seeds of Greed • Greed begins in the heart long before it shows in actions (Mark 7:21–23). • Ask the Spirit to expose any love of money, power, or influence lurking within (Psalm 139:23–24). • Identify subtle compromises: manipulating others, cutting corners, or justifying “small” dishonesty. Anchor Your Heart in God’s Character • God is righteous and just; He “shows no partiality and accepts no bribes” (Deuteronomy 10:17). • Fix your gaze on His holiness—greed withers when confronted by His majesty (Isaiah 6:1–5). • Remember that He is the ultimate Provider (Philippians 4:19). When you trust His sufficiency, the itch to grasp fades. Cultivate Contentment • Practice gratitude: regularly list evidences of God’s provision (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Learn Paul’s secret: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (Philippians 4:11). • Reject comparison. Envy fuels greed; contentment quenches it (James 3:16). Choose Generosity and Justice • Greed hoards; love gives. “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). • Set aside a first‐fruits portion for the Lord and for the needy (Proverbs 3:9; 1 John 3:17). • Use influence to uplift the vulnerable, not exploit them (Proverbs 31:8–9; Isaiah 1:17). Walk in Practical Accountability • Invite trusted believers to ask hard questions about your finances, motives, and decisions (Hebrews 3:13). • Keep transparent records; avoid secret dealings (2 Corinthians 8:20–21). • Submit to earthly authorities—tax laws, employment policies, church oversight—as to the Lord (Romans 13:1–7). Live by the Spirit, Not the Flesh • “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). • Daily Scripture intake and prayer tune your heart to heavenly values (Psalm 1:1–3). • The Spirit produces self-control and goodness, virtues that suffocate greed (Galatians 5:22–23). Looking Forward When Christ returns, He will establish perfect justice (Revelation 19:11). Living in that hope empowers us to reject the bribes and bargains of a fallen world and to shine as people “zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14). |
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